NDC bans proxy voting, tightens security rules for regional elections

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has unveiled stringent electoral regulations for its upcoming Regional Elections, banning proxy voting and imposing heightened security measures. In a statement issued by the party, party General Secretary Fiifi Fiavi Kwetey reminded members, candidates, delegates, and election officials of the protocols for the regional electoral exercise, emphasizing the importance of adherence to ensure a credible, transparent, orderly, and peaceful process.

The NDC's guidelines prohibit proxy voting, requiring all eligible delegates to be physically present at their designated polling centers to cast their ballots. The party maintains that "There shall be no proxy voting. Every eligible delegate must be physically present to cast his or her vote."

To validate their eligibility, delegates must present one of three acceptable forms of identification: a valid NDC Party Identification Card, an official accreditation document, or an embossed photograph captured in the approved voters' register. The identification requirement aims to streamline the verification process and minimize discrepancies in acknowledging accredited delegates.

Voting hours are set from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with an exception allowing delegates already in line by 4:00 p.m. to vote, should the process extend beyond the scheduled closing time. The NDC assigns the Ghana Police Service the exclusive responsibility for maintaining order at all election centers, while barring personal security details accompanying government officials or other individuals from entering designated voting areas.

The directive states, "The Ghana Police Service shall have sole responsibility for security at all election centres," and further clarifies that "Personal security details accompanying government officials or any other individuals shall not be permitted within designated voting areas." The NDC urges all aspirants, delegates, supporters, and election officials to demonstrate maturity, discipline, and restraint throughout the electoral process, emphasizing the importance of compliance with the announced guidelines to safeguard the credibility of the elections and maintain unity among the party's members.